Ellemental

Ok, so a few weeks ago I received an invitation to networking event for a local women’s group. Although the last thing in the world I want to do right now is commit myself to yet another group, I figured what the heck. Some beverages, some appetizers…an hour or two to get out and meet some people (the power of networking is sucking me in.) Besides, it was scheduled for 6pm, so I could go right after work.
The weather this morning was horrible. Bad Bad Horrible Bad. Lots of school closings and cancellations. My employer decided to close the office a little early. I called the woman that I had RSVPed to to see if the event was still on. She had clearly taken several similar phone calls and really didn’t do a good job in disguising her frustration as she said, “Yes, it’s still on.” I understand that…all the planning that goes into an event, then unpredictable weather. I started to say, “ok, I was just calling because my office is closing early…blah blah blah.” Before I got the first three words out she cut me off and said, “We have a speaker coming from out of state and SHE is able to make it. I certainly don’t see a problem with anyone simply driving across town to get here.”

Perhaps I don’t see a problem with that either. What I DO see a HUGE problem with is the recruiting skills of this group. You want to attract new members? Giving a lecture on the dos and don’ts of social obligations during a snow storm isn’t going to help you win new members.
I’m still going to go because I RSVPed and it’s the right thing to do. The appetizers had better be DAMNED good.